Continuing from Matthew 18:6-10 we must understand the responsibility and consequences for offence as highlighted by the Lord, warning about taking (sexual) advantage of the innocence and trust of the little child (congregant) under your watch (Matt. 18:6). But and if the child is versed in the ways of the world, you ought to know and warn as counselled in verse 7 and take drastic steps against falling to the traveller.

But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea. Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh! Matthew 18:6-7 (KJV)

But if anyone abuses one of these little ones who believes in me, it would be better for him to have a heavy boulder tied around his neck and be hurled into the deepest sea than to face the punishment he deserves! Misery will come to the one who lures people away into sin. Troubles and obstacles to your faith are inevitable, but great devastation will come to the one guilty of causing others to stumble! Matthew 18:6-7 (TPT)

Call to mind the case of Zimri and Cozbi in Numbers 25:14,15. Zimri, a Simeonite prince, whose name translates as “praiseworthy or celebrated in songs” was probably so swollen-headed by his popularity as suggested by the name, that he lost his senses and responsibility towards Yahweh and got trapped by Cozbi’s (translated deceitful or my lie) lie. Cozbi was the daughter of Zur, also one of the Midianite chiefs.

Zimri was so lost in his association with the enemy that he publicly vaunted his transgression, disdaining the leadership of Moses and Aaron and he received the just recompense of death!

Beloved, let us learn from these examples, perpetually conscious of the constant battle between the flesh and the spirit (Gal. 5:16,17) and also the solution of being filled always with the Holy Spirit (Eph. 5:18). Selah.

Pastor Afolabi Oladele